The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has informed its allies that it is ready to participate in a multinational maritime force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, according to a Financial Times report.
Abu Dhabi has expressed its willingness to deploy its own navy as part of a coalition designed to protect commercial shipping and ensure the free flow of energy supplies. Sources cited by the Financial Times indicate that the UAE is advocating for a broad international coalition and is working with Bahrain on a proposed United Nations Security Council resolution to provide legal backing for the force.
Gulf states and Western partners are exploring options as shipping through the strait has significantly slowed due to confrontations involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Reportedly, vessel movements have declined by approximately 90% since the onset of the crisis.
This initiative marks a tougher stance by Abu Dhabi toward Tehran, reflecting increasing concerns among Gulf governments about Iran’s control over the strait. Iran has formalised its authority by requiring ships to seek approval from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and, in some cases, pay for safe passage. Gulf leaders worry that Iran could maintain leverage over the waterway even after hostilities cease.
The UAE, which possesses a relatively small but modern navy, is actively urging dozens of countries to join a “Hormuz Security Force” responsible for defending the strait against Iranian attacks and escorting commercial vessels. Currently, Bahrain is the only other Gulf state publicly supporting this initiative, although Abu Dhabi is seeking backing from Saudi Arabia and other partners.
The UAE’s position distinguishes it from most of its Gulf neighbours, who remain divided on how aggressively to confront Iran. While all Gulf states have condemned attacks on merchant shipping and the partial closure of the strait, some prefer relying on U.S. pressure against Tehran rather than deploying their own military forces.
The White House has publicly acknowledged the urgency of reopening the strait. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration is closely monitoring the efforts but did not provide a timeline for when normal shipping passage might resume.
If successful, establishing a multinational maritime force could help restore global energy flows and mitigate the economic fallout from the crisis, which has already led to rising oil prices and higher costs for consumers worldwide.
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